August 28, 2011

Rockapella - Bang!

At last, a collection of mostly new tunes from prolific Contemporary a cappella pioneer, and one of our long-time favorites, Rockapella, swathed in sizzling cool James Bondish graphics by group member Jeff Thacher, who also produced "Bang." New member Steven Dorian joins the all male quintet, taking the place of Kevin Wright. 14 cuts: the fast paced title tune has a funny nod to "Shaft" and sets the table for this very hot album, "Hard Time" has a Dylanesque "get lost" attitude and a driving beat, "Nothin' But" is a classic r&b-type tune that features George Baldi making us believe with his killer bass, joined by John K. Brown's smooth tenor, "Tonight" finally includes on a recording this overtly risque song that the group has used to open their live shows, "Shemibos" is a driving, rhythmic dance gem with John doing a smoking lead, "Malibu Grand-Prix" is a fast-moving ode to the Beach Boys, with the patented Rockapella sense of humor and vocal faux motors revving, "Too Much" is another "get up and dance" winner with a husky lead by John, "Babygirl" again features George's sweet chocolaty bass and is so very fine, "The Shortest Path" is a yummy ballad with another great lead by John, "No Pressure" is an awesome audio-manipulated dance tune anchored by George's creamy bass, and bonus track "A-Punk" originally was released by Vampire Weekend and is simply delicious! Three songs that were first recorded on the album "1man1mike," "4u4now4life," "Tell Me What You Want" and "California Sad Eyed Girl"--all are better versions on "Bang," and all are excellent. Bottom line? "Bang" is one of the best of the year by one of a cappella's elite groups who just keep getting more amazing—don't miss this one! 2985 CD 11.95
Listen to "Bang!

Posted by acapnews at August 28, 2011 12:35 AM